L'Amour du Vin

The 2010 L'Amour du Vin Live Auction Lots

Live Lot 1

One Salmanazar [9L] of Taittinger Champagne Brut, NV.

Both Parker and Wine Spectator have rated the non-vintage Taittinger 90 points. Bruce Sanderson [WS] wrote a typical note: “Lovely. Firm and on the dry side, with pencil shaving, citrus and candied berry notes. Elegant yet well-toned, it shows intensity and character from beginning to end and stays persistent through the long finish. Try with light seafood appetizers.” Oysters and shrimp anyone?

Donor: Beverage Control

Live Lot 2

Double Magnum [3L] of 2007 Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon Special Selection

Caymus Vineyards was founded in 1972 by Charles F. (Charlie) Wagner, Lorna Belle Glos Wagner and their son Charles J. (Chuck) Wagner on the family's Rutherford property. The Wagners produced their first Cabernet Sauvignon from the 1972 vintage. Their first Special Selection was made from the 1975 vintage. Caymus has made Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon every year since its founding. Winemaker notes: “The rich, deep ruby color reflects the magnificent depth this wine has to offer. Lush aromas of ripe black currant, black cherry and cedary oak add luxurious notes to the intense core flavors of fully ripe cassis, wild red berry, mocha and light vanilla. Polished tannins, a full-bodied mouthfeel and velvety texture weave seamlessly to support these vivid fruit impressions to the end.” There has never been anything but superior Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon Special Selection.

Donor: Randy and Angela Massey

Live Lot 3

One Week Stay for 10 Guests in a Rebuilt 1900 Farmhouse in Highlands, NC, Including Golf for Four on the Tom Fazio Designed Course at Mountaintop Golf and Lake Club.

Built in the early 1900’s, the Crunkleton Farmhouse was the entrance to Highland’s North Carolina. Jay and Jet Dunlap bought the property with its natural spring and meandering creek in 2006 and rebuilt the farmhouse. Honoring the original design with white German lap siding and wide plank floors, it now has all the modern comforts. This cottage has 4 bedrooms and 4.5 baths; can sleep 10 – one bedroom with bunk-beds, one is a king, one is a queen, and one has a queen with a trundle bed. The beautiful town of Highlands, with its shopping, especially antique and gift shops, and many fabulous restaurants, can be enjoyed during the blooming spring, the cool nights of summer, or the gorgeous colors of fall. The owner will arrange tee times for 4 at the beautiful Mountaintop Golf and Lake Club located between Highlands and Cashiers. The Tom Fazio Course was voted one of the top 3 private courses in the mutual agreement between the owners and the winning bidder.

Donor: Jay & Jet Dunlap

Live Lot 4

A Case of 1997 California Cabernets. One Each: Groth Cabernet Sauvignon; Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon; Viader Vineyards Proprietary Red wine; Duckhorn Cabernet Sauvignon; Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon; Keenan Cabernet Sauvignon; Merryvale Profile; Livingston Moffett - Stanley Select; Spring Mountain Mirabelle; Carmenet Moon Mountain Reserve; Martin Ray Cabernet Sauvignon; and Robert Sinskey – RSV Vineyard Reserve

This is a wonderful horizontal of the 1997 vintage. In the order presented, Wine Spectator [James Laube] gave these wines: 92, 88, 97, 90, 90, 87 [RP], 88, 85, 92, Carmenet NR, 90, and Sinskey NR. All of these are well-known wines and all are ready to drink now. The two unrated wines [Carmenet and Sinskey] received good ratings in the years they have been rated. The Viader, alone, [97 WS] makes this lot a very desirable item. The tasting notes from Laube state: “Beautifully proportioned, rich and complex, with ripe, concentrated plum, currant, black cherry, mocha, toasty oak and spice nuances. Turns smooth and silky on a long, elegant finish.” The Groths make exceptional Cabernet; Caymus is world-renowned. In addition, you get Duckhorn, Mondavi, Keenan, Merryvale – all great names in Napa Valley Cabernet – and much, much more. Every one is a toothstainer with tremendous mouthfeel; you might want to schedule a tooth polishing after you finish the last bottle!

Donor: Florence and Russ Johnston

Live Lot 5

Dinner for Eight at Bistro By The Tracks on Monday, April 5, 2010, Including a Case of K Vintners- Charles Smith Wines.

An outstanding dinner will be prepared by Executive Chef Chester Miller. The matching wine service includes Two Bottles Each: 2006 K Vintners The Creator; 2006 K Vintners The Deal, Sundance Vineyard; 2007 K Vintners Wahluke Slope; 2005 Charles Smith The Heart, Royal Slope, Columbia Valley; 2005 Charles Smith The Skull, Royal Slope, Columbia Valley; and 2006 Charles Smith, Royal City, Washington State. K Vintners opened its doors to the public on December 3, 2001. Regarding the winemaker, Parker: “When it comes to his wines, the otherwise wild and irrepressible Charles Smith is as serious as a heart attack. Charles Smith knows where to find the great grapes.” The wines are full of flavor, balanced, and true to their place of origin.Parker awarded these wines with 95, 94, NR, 97, 98, NR. Although Parker didn’t rate the Royal City, Wine Enthusiast rated it 100 points! “The 2005 The Heart, gives off a room-filling bouquet of cedar, leather, mineral, blueberry, and blackberry liqueur. Opulent, powerful, and layered on the palate, it conceals enough structure to see the wine through another 6-8 years of evolution. The 2006 The Creator nose offers up olives, cloves, meat, game, wild blueberry, and blackberry. This is followed by a powerful yet elegant wine with great density and richness, loads of spice, and a 60-second finish. The 2006 The Deal Sundance Vineyard delivers aromas of mineral, smoked meat, game, and black olives that leap from the glass. Loads of succulent blue and black fruit are supported by refined tannins and well integrated oak.” – Robert Parker. These are stupendous wines to go with the always magnificent food at Bistro By the Tracks!

Donor: Sunspot Restaurant and Bistro by the Tracks

Live Lot 6

A Two Magnum Selection of Signed Martinelli Wines, a Two Night Stay at the Martinelli Winery, and Two Coveted Spaces on the Martinelli Mailing List.

Four guests will enjoy a two-night stay at the Martinelli Winery. The two-bedroom property is on the Martinelli rural Ranch in Windsor, California. The lucky guests will enjoy a private tour of the Martinelli Hop Barn Winery and Vineyards, and a personal tasting of their highly acclaimed Russian River and Sonoma Coast Single Vineyard Designate wines, plus a lovely lunch with the Martinellis! And, two signed Magnums of Martinelli wines, one for each couple to select on their visit to the winery. You may choose between several of Martinelli’s Single Vineyard Designate Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs or Syrahs. These are all family owned & farmed estate vineyards whose production is under 500 cases per year. Finally, each couple will receive a valuable and coveted spot on the Martinelli mailing list. Let’s show our appreciation and love of Martinelli wine and all they have done for the L’Amour du Vin!

Donor: Martinelli Vineyards & Winery

Live Lot 7

Four Course Dinner with Wine For Four Guests at Telepan, NY.

Telepan is a winner of the Wine Spectator Best Award of Excellence. “Bill Telepan has created a menu that marries two very appealing elements—local, seasonal ingredients and diner-centric customizability—in a sea of European–influenced dishes.” – Timeout New York. When you read reviews of Telepan, the freshness of local ingredients is always stressed. The website: www.telepan-ny.com has links to reviews from various publications. But the true test is before you. This great food tonight is available at the source in New York. From everything we read, it is a given that your dinner will be one of your lasting memories of your trip to New York.

Donor: Telepan, NY - Bill Telepan Chef/Owner

Live Lot 8

Scott Duce, L'Amour du Vin, 2009, oil on canvas, 32 x 24 inches

Scott Duce received a BFA from the University of Utah and MFA from Boston University. Upon graduating, he accepted a teaching position at Wesleyan College in Macon, Georgia, where he became a tenured professor. In 1995, Duce stopped teaching and began painting full-time. Since 1999 Duce has been living and working in New York City. Duce’s paintings are exhibited internationally in Paris, France; Florence, Italy; and Lima, Peru. In the United States, his work can be found in galleries in New York, Atlanta, Greenwich, and Chicago, among others. Duce’s work is included in many corporate, museum, and private collections. Notable collections include Random House, General Electric, IBM, Pfizer, Inc., Capital Holding Corporation, McGraw-Hill Corporation, Reading Museum, Macon Museum of Arts and Sciences, Petroplus Holdings, Switzerland, Seagrams-Montreal, and U.S. Embassy, Stockholm, Sweden. Duce has exhibited with Bennett Galleries in Knoxville for over twenty years.

Donor: Scott Duce, framing by Bennett Galleries and Company

Live Lot 9

Four Double Magnums [3L] of 2006 Ramey Wine Cellars Chardonnays and Cabernets One each: 2006 Hyde Vineyard Chardonnay Napa-Carneros; 2006 Hudson Vineyard Chardonnay Napa- Carneros; 2006 Larkmead Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley; and 2006 Pedregal Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville

The KMA owes a huge debt of gratitude to David Ramey and Ramey Wine Cellars for their past and continuing support of L”Amour du Vin! Ramey was the sponsoring winery in 2006. This year Ramey Wine Cellars has furnished 3 wonderful 3 Liter bottles of their 2006 vintage. Robert Parker rated these wines 93, 91, 92+, and 95+ points respectively – very high praise, indeed! James Laube was equally enamored with this lot. Parker: “My favorite of Ramey’s 3 single vineyard Chardonnays is the 2006 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard. It reveals gorgeous acidity, more tropical fruit, nectarine, and orange blossom characteristics, a greenish hue to its color (always a good sign), and long, full-bodied flavors. The 2006 Chardonnay Hudson Vineyard exhibits aromas of green apples, quince, white currants, and honeyed citrus in an impressive, medium to full-bodied style with beautiful fruit, a subtle dosage of wood, and a heady finish. The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Larkmead Vineyard is extremely promising. Its inky/ruby/purple color is followed by a gorgeous perfume of smoke herbs, graphite, creme de cassis, coffee beans, and toasty oak. With sensational fruit on the attack and mid-palate, and a finish filled with power, glycerin, depth, and impressive structure, this 2006 will benefit from 2-3 years of bottle age, and should evolve for two decades or more. The sensational 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Pedregal Vineyard is inky purple to the rim, with sweet creme de cassis, roasted meat, and blackberry fruit notes, juicy succulence on the attack, full-bodied power, plenty of glycerin, sensational purity, and a hint of bouquet garni, this is an enormously endowed Cabernet Sauvignon that builds incrementally on the palate, finishing with a blast of power and sweet tannin.” Four double magnums of wine averaging 93 Parker points! Party time, everyone!

Donor: Ramey Wine Cellars

Live Lot 10

A Week for Four Guests at Château D'Arch

Be our guest at the Relais du Château D'Arche, a charming 18th century Charter House overlooking the village of Sauternes. Two luxuriously decorated guest rooms with private baths and sitting areas are yours for a seven-day retreat in the beautiful Bordeaux wine region of France. Château D'Arche is the ideal starting point for your exclusive tour of the region, its vineyards and estates, its restaurants and sporting opportunities (horseback, hiking, golf). Our winemaker will guide you through our production facilities and treat you to a tasting of our best wines. Salut! Visit must occur before March 3, 2011.

Donor: Château D'Arch

Live Lot 11

A Case of Heitz Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Martha's Vineyard 2004

Heitz's remarkable Martha's Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon has been a collector's favorite for over 40 years. Wine Spectator underscored this wine's legendary status by selecting Martha's Vineyard Cabernet as one of the Top 12 wines of the 20th Century. The Spectator’s James Laube awarded this wine a 93 solid points: “Shows hints of maturity, with chocolate mint, cherry and currant flavors that are intense yet elegant, balanced and stylish. Full-bodied, firm and focused, this is complex and concentrated without being heavy, offering the wine's classic style and personality. That’s good enough for us!

Donor: Heitz Wine Cellars

Live Lot 12

Fifteen Year Vertical Tasting [1991 – 2006 excluding 1992] of Château Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon for up to 30 Persons, Hosted at Fleming’s Steakhouse.

Every bottle is rated 90 points or higher by Robert Parker, with an average bottle rating of 94 points! This very unique offering is an extraordinary show of California Cabernet Sauvignon at its best. Château Montelena was one of the winning American wineries that participated in the "Judgement at Paris" in 1976," which was featured in the recent movie Bottle Shock. The 1997 is rated 98; five of the wines are rated 95; 2 are rated 94; and, only four are rated below 93. According to Parker: “Montelena has plenty of structure. Nearly every vintage of their top Cabernet Sauvignon will last for 25 or more years ... Montelena is probably the most consistent winery for Cabernet Sauvignon over the last three decades.” In his tasting notes for the 95-rated 1994 vintage Parker observed: “Montelena's Estate Cabernet Sauvignons are equivalent to buying blue chip stock. They get better and better with age and as the vertical tastings I have attended so persuasively attest, they are still relatively young wines at 20 years of age!” Describing the 98 rated 1997: “Opaque purple-colored with a dense, chewy, full-bodied personality, it displays abundant cassis, mineral, and earth notes. This brilliantly made, super-concentrated, pure, blockbuster possesses sweet tannin as well as a terrific finish.” Frankly, most of the 15 review read like this. Another magnificent opportunity for you and your friends to completely learn one of the great wines of the world in one sitting! As mentioned elsewhere in this catalog, you taste and compare all 15 vintages at once! You will leave with a complete understanding of the terroir of this great Napa Valley estate. Vertical tastings of this breadth and magnitude are extremely rare, and then they are usually sponsored by the winery itself. To be scheduled at a date and time by mutual agreement between buyer, Glenn Irwin and Fleming’s Steakhouse, probably on a weekend afternoon. Expires March 2011. We will see you there!

Donor: Glenn & Dottie Irwin and Fleming’s Steakhouse

Live Lot 13

Three Double Magnum [3L] Vertical Pride Mountain Merlot Etched and Signed by Steve Pride. One Each: 2005, 2006, 2007

We have discussed Pride Mountain Vineyards and their awesome support of L’Amour du Vin, including being our Winery Sponsor in 2008. We have also discussed Pride Mountain Merlots in a previous lot. Winemaker 2005 Merlot notes: “Very ripe, blackberry and currant aromas with a trace of vanilla. Broad, expansive and even across the mid-palate, with a candy-like middle and chewy tannins. Soft edges and tremendous length. Merlot for Cab people!” That pretty well sums it up! James Laube [WS] awarded 93 points to the 2005: “Rich and concentrated, with bold aromas of plum, currant and mocha leading to complex, layered blackberry, licorice and spice flavors that finish with a flourish of ripe, minerally tannins.” Food & Wine Magazine labeled the 2006 “The Best Merlot of 2009.” Wine Enthusiast granted 93 points: “Made in the Pride style, this is a big, powerful wine that should age well. It’s enormously ripe, with flamboyant cassis, cherry pie filling, milk chocolate, licorice and smoky oak flavors that are wrapped into thoroughly modern, softly refined tannins. Just beautiful!” RP 92 points: “The 2007 Merlot, which comes from both Napa and Sonoma fruit (the Pride Mountain vineyards are split by the county line), exhibits a dense purple color as well as abundant chocolate and berry fruit notes, medium to full body, and great freshness, length, and depth. It is a heady, succulent style of Merlot to drink over the next 7-10 years.” This case-equivalent double magnum lot provides excellent, powerful, tooth-staining wine for any palette. We never have anything left but an empty bottle and a lot of smiles when we open a bottle of Pride Merlot.

Donor: Pride Mountain Vineyards

Live Lot 14

Mountains of Magnums! 17 [1.5L] Bottles PLUS Dinner, Lunch,Tastings & Tours, and Lodging for Four Guests! One Magnum Each: Erna Schein 2006 Knock Out Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley; Frias Family 2006 Spring Mountain Estate Cabernet Sauvignon; Pride Mountain Vineyards 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon; Terra Valentine 2006 Spring Mountain District Cabernet Sauvignon; Guilliams 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon; Spring Mountain Vineyards 2005 Elivette Proprietary Blend; Barnett 2007 Rattlesnake Hill Cabernet Sauvignon; Keenan 2005 Merlot Reserve; Schweiger Vineyards 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon; Cain Vineyards 2005 Cain 5; Fantesca 2006 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (2- 750ml); Marston Family Vineyard 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon; Sherwin Family Vineyards Etched Commemorative American Flag Magnum 2006 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon; Vineyard 7 & 8 2006 "7" Cabernet Sauvignon; Newton 2006 BDX; Paloma 2007 Merlot (2-750ml); Andesite 2007 Mervignon (2- 750ml)

From all of the wineries here on Spring Mountain, we look forward to welcoming you to our very special area of the Napa Valley. Your trip for four people includes the following items: 2 nights lodging at Villa Valentine – Terra Valentine; Dinner at Guilliams Vineyards; Lunch at Barnett along with a tour & tasting; Private tasting, vineyard walk and cave tour at Pride Mountain Vineyards; Spring Mountain Vineyards - private library tasting; Food & Wine pairing with tour and tasting at Schweiger Vineyards; Tour & tasting at Paloma Vineyards; Reserve Tour & Tasting at Marston Family Vineyard. We look forward to you visit. Please contact Diana Schweiger at Schweiger Vineyards (707) 963-4882 to schedule your visit for a mutually workable date.

Donor: Spring Mountain District Association and their Member Wineries

Live Lot 15

Five Course Dinner With Wine Pairings for 16 Guests at the Knoxville Beverage Company’s New State of the Art Facility

Experience the Best of Napa Valley without Leaving Knoxville! All the beauty and panache of a Napa Valley dining experience right on your doorstep! Pass through the wooden archway to a beautiful veranda warmed by the outdoor stone fire pit. Enjoy wine and hors d’oeuvres and a tour of the new tasting room and wine cellar with your host Mike Milner. Then, it is on to the private dining room, sparkling with china and silver and decked with flowers. The wines for the evening will be selected from premier importers to include Martine’s Wines, Eric Solomon Selections, Domaine Select, and The Rare Wine Company, and presented by Andy Chabot, sommelier of Blackberry Farms. The dinner, designed and prepared by chefs from Blackberry Farm and RT Lodge, will be as fine a meal as you could enjoy on either coast or anywhere in between.

Donor: Mike Milner, Knoxville Beverage Company; Blackberry Farm / RT Lodge; Andy Chabot

Live Lot 16

Two Nights for Two Guests at Blackberry Farm for One of the 2010 Artist in Residence Series

A true artist is bestowed with the innate talent of seeing beyond the everyday, an extraordinary vision that sees past the surface and into the nature of its subject. It is one thing to witness the final product; it is an entirely different experience to be a part of the journey in creating the art. At Blackberry Farm we celebrate beautiful and compelling artwork everyday – whether it is with a specially selected painting adorning the wall or a beautiful piece of furniture accenting an entryway, the hand drawn sketches on our dining room china by our Master Gardener, John Coykendall, or the architecture of The Barn itself, art is a very important part of the Blackberry experience. We are so excited to introduce the beginning of our Artist in Residence Series. These unique events are a rare opportunity to enter the world of the artist as we invite the artist to immerse himself in the world of Blackberry Farm.

Enjoy accommodations in a Cottage Suite and attendance for two to one of the listed Artist in Residence Series events, and get to know one of North America’s rare artistic talents. Surround yourself with the creative spirits of these renowned talents as they share their inspirations, artistic processes and relocate their studios to the beautiful Farmhouse at Blackberry Farm for these wonderful celebrations of art. The auction winner of this package may choose from one of the exciting 2010 Artist in Residence Events – Andrew Saftel, April 11-13; Thrush Holmes, June 4-6; William Dunlap and John Alexander, June 25-27. Each event includes welcome receptions, group dinners, and a front row seat in the artist’s studio as they present, demonstrate, and discuss their life’s work. You will be given unprecedented access into the world of the artist via Blackberry Farm.

Donation Includes: two nights’ lodging in a Cottage Suite, one of Blackberry’s most luxurious accommodations offering a private porch with rockers, wood-burning fireplace, king-size featherbed, sitting area, fully stocked pantry, and large bathroom complete with whirlpool tub and heated floors; Artist in Residence event tuition for two; all meals from dinner the night of arrival through lunch the day of departure; and all taxes and service charges.

Donor: Sam Beall and Blackberry Farm

Live Lot 17

A Case of Cuvaison wine, plus a VIP Tasting and Two Night Stay for Six Guests at the winery in Los Carneros. The wine: 2007 “S” Block Chardonnay – 4 bottles; 2006 Two Estates – 4 bottles; 2007 F-5 Block Pinot Noir – 2 bottles; and 2008 Sauvignon Blanc – 2 bottles

The Schmidheiny family, owners of Couvaison, live in Switzerland most of the year. They open their European-style home while they are away and have graciously offered a 2 night stay for 6 with this lot, complete with a VIP tasting in their new tasting room at the winery. Oh yes, and the wine: 2007 “S” Block Chardonnay pulled identical 89 ratings from Parker and Wine Spectator; not rated, the 2006 Two Estates Napa Valley, Brandlin Vineyard contributed 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% each of Petit Verdot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc blended with a final 5% of Carneros Estate Merlot. A true Meritage this wine is deeply colored and richly perfumed. Boysenberry, black currant and black cherry fruit with hints of mocha, toasty oak and orange peel. The 2007 F-5 Block Pinot Noir, not rated, won the 2010 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition - Double Gold Metal - Aroma: Bright raspberry, black plum, vanilla and fennel. Palate: Black cherry, wild strawberry, toast and clove spice. The unrated 2008 Sauvignon Blanc exhibits “intense flavors of honeydew, lychee, kiwi and lime.” How good is this wine? When the Wine Chairs visited the winery in November and tasted the wines, they stocked up!

Donor: Cuvaison Estate Wines

Live Lot 18

Seven-Night Stay for Two Guests at the Luxury Lodge Mosaic Farm in South Africa.

Mosaic Farm is two hours Southeast of Cape Town set on a beautiful lagoon with magnificent mountain views. It is a short distance from the dramatic coast where there is the world's best land-based whale watching (June- Dec) and great white shark cage-diving. In the World Atlas of Wine Hugh Johnson says, "The most dramatically beautiful wine country in the world is surely South Africa's." Mosaic Farm is in this wine country and has a below ground cellar featuring some of the region's greatest. Enjoy elegant dinners in the newly restored historic manor house, luxury accommodations, walks at the lagoon edge or beach, bird watching, four-wheeling, and trips to lovely sights in the Western Cape. Seven nights - dinner, bed-breakfast for two, inclusive of bird watching, kayaking and beach and sundown activities. Based to availability which must be confirmed in advance; not available during the World Cup (June 11 - July 11, 2010).

Donor: Breese & Kathryn Johnson - www.mosaicfarm.net

Live Lot 19

Dutch Auction – The Ultimate Tasting of Great Wines of The Americas and Then Some, Paired with a Feast Fit for Kings and Queens, on Saturday, May 1, 2010.

Eight privileged couples are in for a special treat featuring wines from the private cellar of Dr. Harvey Kaufman. Randy Burleson will orchestrate an international seven-course gourmet tasting menu, prepared by Chef Chester Miller, in the Wine Cellar at Bistro By The Tracks, to perfectly pair with these Great Wines of The Americas and Then Some. Dr. Kaufman professes that the more you pay, the better the wines!

Dutch Auction Instructions: For the 16 seats at this culinary experience, we will hold a Dutch Auction, which works by elimination. The auctioneer will suggest an opening bid for two seats, and anyone willing to pay that price stands up. As the price rises higher and higher, anyone willing to pay the new bid remains standing. This continues until only eight remain standing. Each pays the last bid named and receives two reservations at the dinner.

Donor: Dr. and Mrs. Harvey Kaufman; Randy Burleson – Bistro By The Tracks

Live Lot 20

One Case of Beautiful Bordeaux from two great vintages! One Each: 1996 Château Pontet-Canet, Pauillac, Grand Cru Classé; 1996 Château Calon-Segur, Saint-Estephe, Grand Cru Classé; 1996 Château Beychevelle, St Julien, Grand Vin; 1996 Carruades de Lafite, Pauillac; 1996 Château Ducru- Beaucaillou, St Julien, Grand Cru Classé; 1996 Château Gruaud Larose, St Julien, Grand Cru Classé; 1995 Château Lafon Rochet, Saint-Estephe, Grand Cru Classé; 1995 Château Clinet, Pomerol; 1995 Château Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, Pauillac, Grand Cru Classé; 1995 Château Branaire-Ducru, St Julien, Grand Cru Classé; 1995 Château Lynch-Bages, Pauillac, Grand Cru Classé; 1995 Château Cos D'Estournel, Saint-Estephe, Grand Cru Classé

Wonderful Bordeaux from the left bank and one lonely right bank [Clinet] – but it is a beauty! Robert Parker gives these wines an average score of 91.6 points, including three 96 point wines. Wine Spectator averages 91 points a bottle, so the two pundits agree pretty closely. Parker scores respectively are: 92, 92, 86, 88, 96, 89, 96, 96, 90, 91, 95, and 88. Only the three 96-rated wines’ reviews are quoted here. Of the 1996 Ducru- Beaucaillou RP states: “This wine is remarkable. It is muscular, concentrated, and classic. It is sweet and full-bodied, yet unbelievably rich with no sense of heaviness or flabbiness. This profound, backward [wine] is a must purchase.” 1995 Clinet – “The 1995 Clinet represents the essence of Pomerol. The blackberry, cassis liqueur-like fruit of this wine is awesome. The color is saturated black/purple, and the wine extremely full- bodied and powerful with layers of glycerin-imbued fruit, massive richness, plenty of licorice, blackberry, and cassis flavors, full body, and a thick, unctuous texture.” 1996 Pichon- Lalande – RP states: “It is an exquisite example of Pichon-Lalande with the Merlot component giving the wine a coffee/chocolatey/cherry component to go along with the Cabernets’ complex blackberry/cassis fruit. Exquisite on the palate, this is a full-bodied, layered, multidimensional wine.” These wines are ready to drink when you are!

Donor: Florence and Russ Johnston

Live Lot 21

Fifteen Year Vertical Tasting [every vintage 1992 - 2007] Rouge for up to 30 Persons, Hosted by The Orangery.

Château Beaucastel declassified 100% of its fruit to Côte du Rhône in 2002, so no 2002 Châteauneuf was made. Beaucastel is regarded by many as the top estate of Châteauneuf du Pape. It is one of only three to plant and vinify all thirteen grape varieties permitted under Châteauneuf AOC regulations. Robert Parker rated one of these vintages 89+, five in the 90 -92 range, five 93 – 94, and four 95 – 96. Typical notes from RP: “An inky/ruby/purple color is followed by a glorious nose of blue and black fruits, truffles, pen ink, licorice, and meat juices as well as glorious levels of acidity and sweet tannin, buttressing the fruit’s fabulous freshness and vibrancy [2007]. This inky/ruby/purple-colored cuvee offers a classic Beaucastel bouquet of new saddle leather, cigar smoke, roasted herbs, black truffles, underbrush, and blackberry as well as cherry fruit. Full- bodied and powerful [2001]. Its dense purple color is followed by sweet aromas of blackberries, licorice, new saddle leather, and earth. There is superb concentration, full body, low acidity, and high tannin [1998].” All of these are 20 – 30 year wines. What a magnificent opportunity for you and your friends to completely learn one of the great wines of the world in one sitting! That’s correct, you taste and compare all 15 vintages at one go! You will leave with a complete understanding of the terroir of this great estate. Vertical tastings of this breadth and magnitude are extremely rare, and then they are usually sponsored by the winery itself. To be scheduled at a date and time by mutual agreement between buyer, Glenn Irwin and The Orangery, probably on a weekend afternoon. Expires March 2011. We will see you there!

Donor: Glenn & Dottie Irwin and The Orangery

Live Lot 22

Ten Bottle Vertical of Silver Oak, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley [1995 – 2004], inclusive

The Silver Oak story has been laid out elsewhere in the catalog. The Parker scores for this vertical are: 95, 91, 94, 88, 87, 88, 92, 91, 89, and 88. “The 1997 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa looks to be one of the finest wines made by the winemaking team of proprietor Justin Meyer and winemaker/viticulturist Daniel Baron. The 1997 Napa is an impressive effort. A blend of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest 5% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot, this wine has a flamboyant nose of fruitcake, licorice, Asian spice, black currants, and toasty wood. Deep, opulent, viscous, intense, chewy, and thick, it is a classic Napa Cabernet Sauvignon made in an all-American oak lovers' style. The 1995 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa possesses a more saturated ruby/purple color, as well as a more flamboyant and exotic bouquet. Moreover, it seems less evolved. Full-bodied and pure, with layer upon layer of concentrated black fruits, smoke, cedar, and toast.” The Cabernet Sauvignon Napa has long been considered the superior of the two great wines produced by Silver Oak. Ten year verticals are rare. Now is the time to grab one!

Donor: Dr. & Mrs. Louis Browning

Live Lot 23

One Week Stay in a Three Bedroom Vacation Home on Indigo Reef, Marathon Key, Florida

Marathon Key is one hour north of Key West and 1/2 hour south of Islamorada. "Conch House" has a boat slip just out the front door. A mutually agreeable date may be determined between the homeowner and winning bidder for the 2010 Fall season excluding the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. Expires November 15, 2010. Marathon Key is a really great vacation spot!

Donor: Sam & Susie McCamy

Live Lot 24

Art For All of Us. Raise Your Paddles to Add A Beautiful Work of Art to the KMA Collection. Cobi Cockburn, Mere, 2008, Fused slumped and coldworked glass 8 1/4 x 29 3/4 x 6 5/8 inches

Focusing on the cradling shapes of basketry as a reference point to develop my forms, and the seasonal colors of the native grasses to develop my palette and incorporate a sense of place, I hope to create delicate and unique objects that reflect this extraordinary environment.” – Cobi Cockburn. Cockburn is a highly- acclaimed artist known for her distinctive contemporary glass sculptures inspired by the natural environment and indigenous Australian basketry. Her intricate technique involves coloring and fusing thousands of tiny fibers of glass, and shaping them into elegant vessel forms reflecting the fluidity of glass and the fibrous textures of traditional woven vessels. Cockburn is a graduate of the Sydney College of Art in Australia and an honors graduate of the Glass Workshop at Canberra School of Art. She received the prestigious Ranamok Glass Prize in 2006, the Vicki Torr Memorial Prize at the Ausglass International Conference in 2005, and her work is frequently included in exhibitions from Sydney to London, and from Portland to Munich. Her art has been featured in New Glass Review, Art Ltd and Craft Arts International. Your name will be added to the plaque displayed beside this work that will list those who helped make the purchase possible.

Donor: All of Us

Live Lot 25

An Afternoon Tasting for up to 12 Champagne Lovers and their Canine Companions

The afternoon will include champagne tasting with a guest expert to offer comments. Also canine companions are invited to join their owners for a afternoon of socializing with the other guest pets and owners will receive a charcoal drawing of their pet to take home. This party is for up to 12 champagne lovers and their well behaved pets. Several different Pol Roger Champagnes will be served, along with an American sparkling wine, and one additional super premium Champagne. This array will give you a chance to sample and compare styles and terroir. Both Robert Parker and Wine Spectator routinely award 90 to 95 point scores to Pol Roger Champagnes and we know the other selections will be equally as highly regarded. Champagne-appropriate snacks and puppy snacks will be served! The donors request the event to be scheduled in March, April, May, or late September, October of 2010. It is preferable that the event be scheduled on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon. We have been privileged to obtain a lot for a party at Vicki and Tim’s a couple of years ago. Let me tell you, they are an extremely gracious hostess and host, and the wines simply cannot be beat. No one ever met a stranger is this house – it’s like being with old friends you have known all of your life. Southern hospitality at its very, very finest!

Donor: Vicki & Tim Keller

Live Lot 26

A Week for Two in an Apartment in Italy Overlooking Lake Lugano

Two guests will spend a week's vacation in the Lake Lugano Luxury Apartment, located in the small, quaint and very old Italian village of San Mamete, near the Swiss border. The apartment is situated directly on Lake Lugano, in a fairy tale like setting, with magnificent lake views. The property is located near the fashionable city of Lugano, Switzerland, 30 minutes from Lake Como, and one hour from Milano. Many restaurants are located nearby. There is an abundance of activities in the surrounding area to include snow skiing, horseback riding, golf, tennis, water sports, shopping the outdoor markets, and taking land excursions to local towns and villages. The one-bedroom apartment features a king size bed that may be separated into twins, bathroom, and a fully equipped kitchen. It has marble floors, balcony and an upgraded bath. Other amenities include the security of an intercom and electric front door, a private boat dock, satellite TV, music system and elevators. The winning bidder may arrange a mutually agreeable date between October 2010 and May 2011. Package does not include airfare or rental car. For a virtual tour go to www.sanmamete.com

Donor: Tommy & Cindy Hindman

Live Lot 27

Two Benefactor Package Reservations for the High Museum Atlanta Wine Auction 2010 Allure Party and Vintners’ Reception and Live Auction

Join hundreds of wine, food, and art lovers at the largest charity wine auction in the U.S. benefiting the arts – High Museum Atlanta’s Annual Wine Auction, March 25-27, 2010. The Allure Party Benefactor Gala and Patron Party on Saturday, March 20, is an enticing evening of fine wine, food and fun at the High the weekend before the Auction, including an exclusive preview of The Allure of the Automobile exhibition. The Vintners’ Reception and Live Auction, Saturday, March 27, is a daylong food and wine extravaganza beginning with a tasting from more than 85 world-class wineries and 35 of Atlanta's leading chefs and restaurants. Then it's on to the Live Auction-with the world's leading wineries donating their finest in collectible bottles, large format bottles and wines unavailable at retail. Prominent area wine collectors open their cellars to contribute rare vintages. Exclusive trips, dinners and wine-related art are also up for bid. Instructions for confirming with the Wine Auction office to be registered as a guest are in the envelope. We have been participating in this event for most of the 17 years it has been in existence. This 18th Auction promises to be as much fun and celebration as all of the others. Traditionally, it is one of the top 3 – 5 fund raising auctions in the country. There are always unique lots of wine and/or travel that are open for bidding. Come join us this year for the fun!

Donor: High Museum of Art Atlanta

Live Lot 28

Two Rooms for Two Nights at Rancho Caymus Inn, Napa Valley. Includes a Private Tour, Tasting and Picnic Lunch for Four at Flora Springs Winery and One Magnum 2004 Trilogy

Experience the elegance and old-world comfort of Spanish California! Located at Rutherford Square in the heart of the Napa Valley, each suite is filled with handcrafted furnishings overlooking a lavishly-flowered courtyard. Tour the cave and dine al fresco in the outdoor pavilion surrounded by a sea of grape vines. Your picnic lunch will be beautifully paired with Flora Springs’ world-class wines. Savor the memory! Robert Parker [89-91]- “Proprietary blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, and the rest Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. An elegant Bordeaux look-alike in a medium-bodied restrained style, it reveals wonderfully fresh black currant fruit along with hints of raspberries, cherries, spice box, herbs, and minerals.” Flora Springs makes superb Napa Valley Cabernet. This large format bottle is a perfect prelude to, or reminiscent memory of, your trip to visit the winery.

Donor: Flora Springs Winery & Vineyards

Live Lot 29

One Week Vacation in Luxurious Townhome for up to Eight Guests in Seaside, Florida

This 4 Bedroom, 4 bath home is centrally located in the Ruskin Place Artist Community and is a two minute walk to the beach pavilion at the end of each street. The eight unique structures are the open gateway to Seaside's 1/2 mile of beaches-famous for its fine white sand and clear turquoise waters. This cottage, named 'Art and Soul', is a 3-story townhouse fronting on Seaside's Ruskin Park. It has two separate living areas, three queen bedrooms, one twin bedroom and four baths with all the expected amenities, including outdoor grill, wi- fi, cd player, washer/dryer, and televisions on the main level and in all bedrooms. Guests may adopt the honored tradition of "toasting the sunset" on the expansive rooftop deck at day's end. While the atmosphere is laid-back, there is plenty of night life including two wine bars within walking distance and excellent dining up and down Highway 30A, many with live music. Available August 15, 2010 through March 1, 2011 excluding Thanksgiving, New Year and Easter. Arrange a mutually agreeable date with the property owners. Visit www.artandsoulinseasidefl.com for information.

Donor: Marie & Bob Alcorn

Live Lot 30

Wine Dinner with Chef David Pinckney for Eight Guests, in Your Own Home with Wines Provided by Bob’s Package Store.

A dinner fine enough to grace any restaurant or club paired with the perfect wine selections served in your own home. All you provide is the guest list and your home will become the most intimate fine dining experience in Knoxville. A mutually agreeable date, before August 31, 2010, may be determined between Chef Pinckney and the winning bidder.

Donor: David Pinckney and Bob’s Package Store

Live Lot 31

Bocce Luncheon for Six on Spring Mountain at Vineyard 7 & 8 and Four Magnums Vineyard 7 & 8 and Morlet Family Wines. One Each: 2006 Vineyard 7 & 8 “7” Cabernet Sauvignon, Spring Mountain District; 2007 Vineyard 7 & 8 “8” Chardonnay, Estate; Morlet Family Vineyards “La Proportion Dorée”, Sonoma Coast White; and Morlet Family Vineyards “Mon Chevalier”, Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.

While taking in majestic views on the top of Spring Mountain, we invite 6 guests to join us for a “Bocce Luncheon” including the wines of Vineyard 7 & 8 and Morlet Family Vineyards and a tour lead by Winemaker Luc Morlet with a barrel tasting of future wines of Vineyard 7 & 8. The afternoon will conclude with a bocce tournament, so dress comfortably! We welcome Vineyard 7 & 8 and Morlet Family Vineyard this year with open arms! Their facility on Spring Mountain Road is one of the most stunning in all of Napa Valley! It is gorgeous, but no more so than the wonderful wines made by Luc Morlet. Alissa Flynn, Wesley Steffens and Luc Morlet will host a luncheon and party that is only surpassed by the wine! These vineyards, lying above the fog, bring late ripening, low yields, natural drainage, and infertile volcanic soil. The 2006 "7" Cabernet was one of the first wines produced in their new winery facility on the top of Spring Mountain. It was rated 93 by both Wine Enthusiast and Wine and Spirits. “This Cabernet exhibits notes of black cherry and anise, with great complexity and strong mid-palate. The finish shows a balance of spice and firm tannins one would expect from a mountain Cabernet.” Parker rated 92: “The brilliant 2007 Chardonnay displays loads of honeysuckle, orange blossom, and tropical fruit in an exuberant, sexy, medium to full-bodied style, with gorgeous purity, length, and intensity. This beauty should drink well for 3-4 years.” And then the Luc Morlet wines! Parker rated 95: “One of the most profound blends is the 2007 La Proportion Doree (64% Semillon, 34% Sauvignon Blanc, and 2% Muscadelle). An extraordinary nose of waxy, honeyed grapefruit, melons, figs, and quince is superb. In the mouth, a liqueur of rocks intermixed with quinine, quince, and waxy notes continues to cascade over the palate. This is a sensational, dry, incredibly complex wine that shows the potential that blends such as this can achieve. Drink it over the next 4-5 years.” Parker rated 90-92: “The Knight’s Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2007 Mon Chevalier, has notes of graphite, crushed rocks, blue and black fruits as well as terrific intensity. From a high hillside elevation in Knight’s Valley, this Cabernet Sauvignon should drink well for 15 or more years.” Neither of the Morlet wines had a production higher than 300 cases! We were fortunate enough to drink at the Vineyard 7 & 8 facility in November. This is world-class wine! Period! You cannot get it anywhere else in Knoxville!

Donor: Vineyard 7 & 8 and Morlet Family Vineyards

Live Lot 32

One Case of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. One Each: 1998 Château de la Gardine; 2005 Clos des Papes; 1999 Les Cailloux; 2001 Tardieu-Laurent Cuvée Special; 2001 Domaine De La Janasse; 2001 Château de Beaucastel; 1998 Château de Beaucastel; 2000 Domaine de la Mordoree; 1998 Château Les Closiers; 1998 Vieilles Vignes Domaine de la Vielle Julienne; 2001 Vignobles Jean Royer, Cuvée Prestige; and 1998 Domaine Bois de Bourson, Cuvée des Felix

Undoubtedly the lead appellation of the Southern Rhône, Châteauneuf du Pape is named for the papal palace that was once situated in the centre of the town. This was essentially a summer home for the Pope, who in the 14th century was based in nearby Avignon. Predominant grape varietals are Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, although there are 10 other blending grapes that can also be used. . Parker’s ratings for this group are: 90, 95, 90, 95, 91, 96, 96, 90, 91, 96, 90-93, 97 – group average is 93+. BTW, the 2005 Clos des Papes was #1 Wine of the Year for Wine Spectator in 2007 [98 rating]! A couple of typical notes: “Extraordinarily elegant yet powerful, with laser-like sweet black cherry fruit intermixed with floral and mineral notes, this dense ruby/purple-colored 1998 Vieilles Vignes Domaine de la Vielle Julienne is thick, ripe, backward, and tannic. With extraordinary penetration as well as a saturated flavor profile, it requires 4-6 years of cellaring, and should keep for 25-30 years. Extremely pure, with grand cru Burgundy-like characteristics, this distinctive Chateauneuf du Pape brilliantly marries power with finesse.” Of the 1998 Domaine Bois de Bourson, Cuvée des Felix: “This is a Provencal, peppery, spicy, garrigue-scented wine, with extraordinary concentration, loads of glycerin, full body, yet no sense of heaviness or lack of definition. Enormously-endowed and majestic, it possesses a huge mid-palate and a blockbuster finish.” Stupendous Châteauneuf-du-Pape, all mature, awaiting your drinking pleasure.

Donor: Peggy & Jerry Faerber



Presented by the Guild to benefit the Knoxville Museum of Art.

For more information, please contact Denise DuBose-Lloyd at ddubose@knoxart.org

 

L'Amour du Vin is presented by

Lexus of Knoxville


Annual Events

L’Amour du Vin

A gala evening of food and wine, that includes a wine auction and silent auction.

Click here for 2009 photos.




ArtScapes

The event includes both live and silent auctions of art.

Click here for 2008 photos.




Holiday Home Tour

A luncheon and tour of Knoxville area homes that have been decorated for the season.


Artists on Location

A two-day event where local and regional artists paint at designated locations in Knoxville. The following day the art is available for purchase.